The Time Vortex, also known as the Time and Space Vortex, the Space-Time Vortex, and simply the Vortex, was the dimensional plane (The Shadow of Weng-Chiang, Twilight of the Gods) where time and space met, intersecting at an angle determined by non-Euclidean geometry. (Cat’s Cradle: Witch Mark)

According to some accounts, all time travellers passed through the Vortex, often using space-time machines including TARDISes and vortex manipulators to achieve “time-flight.” (Harvest of Time) However, other accounts indicate that There were other dimensional planes where one could travel through time and space, such as the Maelstrom (Elementary, My Dear Sheila et al.) and the Very Fabric of Time and Space. (Mad Dogs and Englishmen)

The Vortex was hinted at existing outside of time and the universe itself, (The Dark Path) meaning time and the Vortex were not the same. Often being in the Vortex was compared to being “outside” of time, (The Time Monster) where travellers were neither connected to nor separated from time. (Harvest of Time)